Cannabinoid receptors

Cannabinoid receptors (/kəˈnæbɪnɔɪd rɪˈsɛptərz/) are a type of protein that is found on the surface of cells and interact with cannabinoids. They are part of the endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in regulating a variety of physiological processes including mood, appetite, pain sensation, and memory.

Etymology

The term "cannabinoid" comes from "cannabis," and "receptor" is derived from the Latin "receptus," meaning "to receive." Thus, cannabinoid receptors are the receivers of cannabinoids.

Types of Cannabinoid Receptors

There are two main types of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2.

CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, and to a lesser extent in other tissues.
CB2 receptors are mostly in the peripheral organs especially cells associated with the immune system.

Function

Cannabinoid receptors are activated by cannabinoids, which are a group of compounds that include phytocannabinoids (found in cannabis), endocannabinoids (produced in the human body), and synthetic cannabinoids (manufactured artificially). When these receptors are activated, they can influence the release of neurotransmitters and help regulate various physiological processes.

Related Terms

Endocannabinoid system: The biological system that includes cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids, and the enzymes that synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids.
Cannabinoids: The group of compounds that can activate cannabinoid receptors.
Phytocannabinoids: Cannabinoids produced by plants.
Endocannabinoids: Cannabinoids produced by the human body.
Synthetic cannabinoids: Cannabinoids produced artificially in a lab.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Cannabinoid receptors
Wikipedia's article - Cannabinoid receptors

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Cannabinoid receptors